Aerothermal analysis of Themis T3: influence of nozzle cluster geometry on the base heating and heat loads on the grid fins

Abstract

The Horizon Europe project SALTO (reusable Strategic Space Launcher Technologies \& Operations) supports ESA’s Themis program by testing key technologies for reusable launchers. In this framework aerothermal CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamic) analysis have been performed to assess the heat loads acting on the surface of Themis T3: a reference configuration for a future demonstrator, during its entire flight trajectory. This paper shows representative flow field solutions and heating patterns for critical phases of the ascent and re-entry flight with a focus on the base area and aerodynamic control surfaces. The impact of nozzle cluster geometry and gas generator exhaust, used to feed the turbopump and subsequently injected in dedicated nozzles, on the base heating has been also evaluated.